From: TSS()Subject: New HPA survey – the ethical and social aspects of a new vCJD test for blood donorsDate: October 21, 2006 at 12:16 pm PST

New HPA survey – the ethical and social aspects of a new vCJD test for blood donors

The Health Protection Agency has launched a consultation to look at the social and ethical implications of a blood test for variant (vCJD), should a test become available. There is currently no blood test to detect vCJD infection in people who appear to be well. Such tests may soon be developed, and this consultation aims to seek views about how these tests for vCJD could be used once they become available.

A vCJD test could be used to screen blood donors, allowing the blood services to prevent blood from people with positive tests being given to patients. This is important as there have now been three probable cases of vCJD infection being transmitted through blood transfusions and a measure such as this could further ensure the safety of blood supplies.

The consultation will explore some questions and concerns about introducing a blood test, including:

1. Should a test for vCJD be introduced when it is not known whether people with positive test results would ever develop symptoms of vCJD, and if they would, how long this would take?

2. Should the UK blood services always tell donors if their vCJD tests are positive? And how should donors’ GPs be involved?

3. If donors knew that they would be tested for vCJD, and that they would be told if they tested positive for vCJD, would they be put off giving blood?

Together with an opinion research company, the HPA is asking experts, health professionals, interest groups and members of the public for views on the possible impact and implications of a blood test for vCJD. A stakeholder audit is being complemented by an on-line questionnaire. The answers will be completely confidential and anonymous.

If you would like to join in this consultation, please take part in the online poll at http://www.hpa.org.uk/infections/topics_az/cjd/consultation.htm